Sweden Boosts Surveillance in Baltic Sea: Troops, Warships, and Aircraft to Monitor Threats

Sweden’s Prime Minister has announced plans to deploy troops to the Baltic Sea for the first time. This move aims to enhance surveillance amid concerns over potential sabotage of the country’s undersea cables. The Swedish leader emphasized that the nation is neither at war nor at peace.

According to the report, Sweden will work closely with NATO to safeguard critical infrastructure. The country will contribute up to three warships and a surveillance aircraft to monitor Russian naval activities.

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson addressed the recent incident involving damaged Baltic Sea undersea cables during the annual Folk och Försvars (Society and Defense) conference in northern Sweden. He said, “Hostile intent cannot be ruled out.”

Kristersson highlighted the threats of hybrid warfare and proxy conflicts, cautioning that Sweden faces multifaceted attacks involving cyber warfare, financial manipulation, disinformation campaigns, and acts of sabotage. He stressed the age-old adage: “If you want peace, be prepared for war.”

During the briefing, the Prime Minister revealed that Sweden will deploy an ASC 890 reconnaissance aircraft and up to three naval vessels to the Baltic Sea. According to The Guardian, this marks Sweden’s first time sending military assets to the region.

Kristersson also addressed the investigation into the Eagle S vessel. NATO would assist in the investigation, which could be linked to the cable damage between Finland and Estonia. He noted that a Swedish submarine rescue ship had been dispatched to recover the anchor from the site.

He emphasized Sweden’s cautious approach, stating they will not rush to conclusions or assign blame without substantial evidence. He assured that operations are ongoing, with the National Security Council receiving regular updates. Kristersson added that given the current security climate and the series of unusual incidents in the Baltic Sea, they cannot rule out hostile intent.